Notre Dame Football: Remembering Knute Rockne

The House that Rockne Built

While Knute Rockne was known by many Americans who were fans of college football and also by those who were not, he was certainly most beloved by the University of Notre Dame community. Rockne posted a 105-12-5 record as the head coach for the Notre Dame football program. He captured three national titles in 1924, 1929, and 1930. Rockne is connected to some of the most famous Notre Dame players, places, and sayings. He coached the “Four Horesemen” and their linemen, “The Seven Mules.” Rockne told us to “go inside em’ and go outside em’,” always reminding us that “today’s the day you’re gonna win!” And of course, he implored us to “win one for the Gipper.”

Directly across from the Word of Life Mural (also known as “Touchdown Jesus”) stands Knute Rockne Gate at the north tunnel of Notre Dame Stadium. On Friday’s, fans can tour the tunnel. They pass a statue of Rockne. They pass a plaque that has the words from his famous speech etched on it. They pass flags that feature the years of Rockne’s national championships.

Finally, they exit the tunnel and walk toward the end zone. Above the exit to the tunnel that leads onto the field read the words “Here Come the Irish.” Fans approach the outskirts of the end zone and take in the history of the place. The classic score board with its yellow-tinted bulbs. The traditionally lined end zones. And fans also take in the newer elements of the place. The jumbotron. The seats that are no longer wooden.

As one stands there witnessing the old and new come together, it is undeniable. This was the House that Rockne Built. It is still the House that Rockne Built. And it will always be The House that Rockne Built.